The Mitsubishi Space Runner, known as the Mitsubishi RVR or Mitsubishi Expo in some markets, is a compact minivan produced by Mitsubishi Motors between 1991 and 1999. Representing the first generation (N1_W, N2_W) of the Space Runner, the 1.8-liter (N11W) model, producing 122 horsepower, was a significant offering in the increasingly popular compact MPV segment. While not officially sold in the United States, the Space Runner was primarily marketed in Europe, Japan, Australia, and New Zealand, offering a practical and versatile vehicle for families and individuals seeking a blend of space, efficiency, and affordability.
Mitsubishi Space Runner (N1_W, N2_W) 1.8 (N11W)
The Space Runner aimed to provide a smaller, more manageable alternative to larger, more expensive minivans. It distinguished itself with a relatively sporty driving experience for its class, and a focus on maximizing interior space within a compact footprint. The N1_W and N2_W designations refer to minor variations within the first generation, primarily relating to equipment levels and regional specifications. The 1.8-liter engine variant was a popular choice, balancing performance with reasonable fuel consumption.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Space Runner 1.8 (N11W) is a 1.8-liter, inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This naturally aspirated engine produces 122 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 161 Nm (118.75 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4500 rpm. The engine features a multi-port fuel injection system and an overhead camshaft (OHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. This configuration delivers a power-to-liter ratio of 66.5 hp/l. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a five-speed manual transmission. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 10.5 seconds, while 0-60 mph is achieved in around 10 seconds. The vehicle boasts a maximum speed of 180 km/h (111.85 mph). The weight-to-power ratio stands at 10.1 kg/hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 7.6 kg/Nm, indicating a reasonably efficient powertrain for its time.
Design & Features
The Mitsubishi Space Runner is a four-door minivan with a seating capacity of five. Its design prioritizes practicality and space utilization. The body style is characterized by a relatively high roofline and a boxy silhouette, maximizing headroom and cargo capacity. The Space Runner offers a minimum trunk (boot) space of 676 liters (23.87 cu. ft.), expanding to a substantial 1498 liters (52.9 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down.
Safety features for the era included an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), which was becoming increasingly common on vehicles of this class. The steering system utilizes a rack and pinion setup with hydraulic power assistance, providing responsive and relatively light steering. The suspension consists of a wishbone configuration at the front and coil springs at the rear, aiming for a comfortable ride quality. The vehicle rides on 185/70 R14 tires. The Space Runner’s interior was designed with durability and ease of cleaning in mind, reflecting its intended use as a family vehicle. While not luxurious, it offered a functional and comfortable environment for passengers.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Space Runner |
| Generation | Space Runner (N1_W, N2_W) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.8 (N11W) (122 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1991 |
| End of production | 1999 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.5 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (US mpg) | 27.7 US mpg |
| Fuel consumption (UK mpg) | 33.2 UK mpg |
| Fuel consumption (km/l) | 11.8 km/l |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.1 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 122 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 66.5 Hp/l |
| Torque | 161 Nm @ 4500 rpm (118.75 lb.-ft. @ 4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1834 cm3 (111.92 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 81 mm (3.19 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 89 mm (3.5 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Kerb Weight | 1228 kg (2707.28 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1720 kg (3791.95 lbs.) |
| Max load | 492 kg (1084.67 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 676 l (23.87 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1498 l (52.9 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 55 l (14.53 US gal | 12.1 UK gal) |
| Length | 4290 mm (168.9 in.) |
| Width | 1695 mm (66.73 in.) |
| Height | 1640 mm (64.57 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2520 mm (99.21 in.) |
| Front track | 1460 mm (57.48 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1460 mm (57.48 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 185/70 R14 |
The Mitsubishi Space Runner, particularly the 1.8-liter variant, offered a compelling package for buyers seeking a practical, versatile, and relatively affordable compact minivan. While not a high-performance vehicle, it provided a comfortable and reliable mode of transportation for families and individuals alike, establishing a niche for itself in the competitive MPV market of the 1990s.
